How do I format a new SSD?

Follow the directions at > Initialize an external storage device in Disk Utility on Mac - Apple Support

1. Choose Utilities from the Finder's Go menu, open the Disk Utility, and reformat them.

2. No, there aren't.

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“I have no idea what just happened but I didn't get to post mu question. So here goes. I just purchased two new SSD drives to use as external storage. Question is how do I format them? Are there steps before going to APFS, or do you have to start with another format? Thanks”

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Formatting with Disk Utility:

As mentioned, use Disk Utility for this. Doing a quick format seems the best, being new and out-of-the-box. Use new to you, but are previously used by others, then formatting it twine might be better, for secure purposes. Be certain to click the disk name in the left pane, and then click the Mount button towards the middle-top-right of the window.